Stephanie A. Miner, Mayor s1

Office of the Mayor

Stephanie A. Miner, Mayor Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Christina Reale January 27, 2010 Public Information Officer (315) 454-3263

Air Canada to Launch Direct Service From Syracuse to Toronto’s Lester B. Pearson International Airport

Syracuse, New York – Air Canada and the City of Syracuse today announced new air service from Syracuse Hancock International Airport (SYR) to Toronto’s Lester B. Pearson International Airport (YYZ). The new service is scheduled to begin May 17, 2010, and will provide twice daily direct flights from Syracuse to Toronto. Flights will be non-stop and conveniently timed for connections with flights on Air Canada’s extensive network in Canada, Europe and Asia. For those who typically drive to Toronto, this new service will offer quick and easy access to Canada’s largest City, and more choices for connecting service to the rest of Canada, and numerous destinations in Europe and Asia.

“This is very exciting news for Syracuse and the region,” said Mayor Stephanie A. Miner. “Our Airport needs to provide the travelling public with as many options as possible, and I am thrilled that Air Canada recognizes the opportunity for successful service in the Syracuse market.”

“This service, not only makes travel to Toronto for both the business and leisure traveler more convenient, it also gives Central New York travelers yet another option to fly to destinations all over Canada such as Vancouver, Winnipeg, and Halifax,” said Commissioner of Aviation Rory A. McMahon. “Beyond the direct service to Toronto, the Air Canada international network offers service to cities all over Europe and Asia.”

“ Convenient, international connections are more important to business than ever,” said Robert M. Simpson, President and CEO of the Metropolitan Development Association of Syracuse and Central New York. “These flights will strengthen Syracuse’s position in the global market and open new business opportunities across Canada, Europe and Asia.”

This new service qualifies for incentives under the City’s existing Air Service Development program, which includes a combination reimbursement for airport fees and charges and assistance with marketing and advertising. In addition, the MDA will provide marketing and advertising assistance under the FlySyracuse program.

203 City Hall – Syracuse, N.Y. 13202-1473 – (315) 448-8005 – Fax: 448-8067